Hemp products are being successfully used to benefit human and horse health issues. Hemp is hearty and easy to grow commercially. It contains minimal amounts of THC (tetrahyrocannabinol), the psychoactive component. Hemp seeds are high in protein and a good source of Omega-3. They are also rich in fiber and contain many vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. They can reduce inflammation and help protect the heart. Hemp seed oil comes from the small seeds of the cannabis sativa plant. It contains Omega-3 fatty acids which are well known for general health benefits. Fish oil has higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids but is a more expensive product. The best quality hemp oil is made using organic, pharmaceutical-grade ethanol or supercritical CO2 extract.
A 2016 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that hempseed oil has an anti-rheumatoid effect on mh7a cells, one type of cell associated with rheumatoid arthritis. A 2016 study published in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found positive brain effects with hemp oil. Participants felt more energetic, relaxed, and calm after taking hemp oil. Lately it has been seen that hemp oil can help horses deal with stress, pain, sleep disorders, Cushing diseases, and other problems related to the nervous system like cribbing and other nervous stall behaviors, according to Kentucky Equine Research. Scientists are learning more about the benefits of hemp for humans and horses and the outlook is very promising.
